Sexual Assault Victim Support

What can I do after I have been sexually assaulted? 

Victims of sexual assault have the power to make a number of different choices. As a sexual assault victim, you may:

• Report the crime to police and provide a statement. Once a statement has been provided, victims can request police involvement, or that police not charge the offender. You will be offered the option of providing a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK).
  • Did you know some sexual assaults can now be reported online? Learn more about online reporting. 
  • Learn more about the role of police in a sexual assault investigation
• Have a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) administered at the hospital. Victims then have a choice of requesting police involvement or no police involvement, with the kit being held for up to six months.
• Complete an anonymous report.
• Do nothing. If you choose this option, still consider seeking support.

What is a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK)

A Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) is a kit intended to collect samples of evidence from your body that may be analyzed by the Centre of Forensic Sciences and used in the police investigation and potential legal proceedings.

A SAEK is administered by a specially-trained nurse in a private hospital space. You may decide to stop this process at any time and you will be informed of all samples required.

What if the sexual assault involved an intimate partner?

In Ontario, police officers must proceed with charges related specifically to domestic violence, which includes any use of physical or sexual force, actual or threatened, in an intimate relationship. It also includes emotional/psychological abuse or harassing behaviour.

If, during a domestic violence investigation, it's determined that a sexual assault has been committed, the police shall proceed with charges regardless of the victim's wishes.

Only a Crown Attorney can withdraw this charge.

Where can I find help?